Be wary of energy drinks

Despite their popularity, energy drinks are not the best option
nutritionally, said Tammy Roberts, nutrition and health education
specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“Unfortunately, the energy in these drinks comes from sugar and
stimulants like caffeine, guarana, ginseng and green tea,” said
Roberts.

Caffeine is a stimulant that occurs naturally in coffee and is
added to many soft drinks. Intake of up to 300 milligrams of caffeine
is considered OK for most adults. Children should consume well under
100 milligrams per day, according to Roberts.

One cup of coffee has about 100 milligrams of caffeine. A 12-ounce
cola drink has around 45 milligrams. Energy drinks have as much
as 85 milligrams of caffeine per 8 ounces. That is less than a cup
of coffee, but the can might be 24 ounces which would provide 255
milligrams.

“It can be difficult to know exactly how much caffeine you are
consuming from energy drinks because food manufacturers are required
to list the presence of caffeine, but not required to list the exact
amount,” said Roberts.

Guarana is a nervous system stimulant that comes from the seeds
of the guarana plant. It is often found in herbal supplements that
promote weight loss. The Food and Drug Administration does not do a
premarket review for safety or effectiveness of dietary supplements.

Ginseng is thought to improve thinking or learning. In some studies,
the benefits of using ginseng have been seen in healthy young people
as well as ill older people. It is important to note, however, that
negative results have also been reported. According to the National
Institutes of Health, more and better research is needed before
a strong recommendation can be made about ginseng.

Green tea has about 50 milligrams of caffeine per one cup.

“Some people believe that green tea helps with memory enhancement
and improves mental performance but according to the National Institutes
of Health, there is unclear scientific evidence for the use of green
tea for that purpose,” said Roberts.

The amount of energy in the form of sugar in these energy drinks
is about the same as other soft drinks, which is 40 to 50 grams
of carbohydrates per 12-ounce can.

Although many people enjoy energy drinks, moderation is advised,
said Roberts.